Cell Phone Tickets

New York has some of the toughest distracted driving laws in the country. Lawmakers have banned the use of any handheld devices while driving. Moreover, the law goes beyond handheld devices like cell phones because it broadly defines “distracted driving” as any activity that takes the driver’s focus away from the road. This includes:

Talking on a cell phone

Sending or receiving texts

Sending emails

Surfing the web

Playing handheld electronic games

Watching videos on a smartphone

Taking photos

Reading

Eating or drinking

Personal grooming

Talking with others in the car

Adjusting the radio

Drivers are expected to exercise caution while on NY roads. Drivers who fail to pay attention are subject to significant penalties:

First Offense: $200 fine

Second Offense: $250 fine

Third Offense: $450 fine

Subsequent Offenses: $450 fine

Beyond the immediate financial consequences, you will also be subject to points on your license. A distracted driving ticket will result in five points on your license. Accrue too many points and your license may be suspended. Additionally, your insurance company could raise your rates, or even cancel your policy altogether, in response to a cell phone traffic ticket.

If you are a commercial driver, or are on the road with a learner’s permit, you may be subject to more severe penalties.

There are also severe financial consequences for anyone involved in a car accident while texting or using a cell phone. If you are convicted of distracted driving, you may be personally liable for any injuries or property damage caused by the crash.

Jonathan Katz Will Fight to Protect You against the Most Severe Penalties for Driving While Using a Cell Phone

If you were cited for talking on a cell phone or texting while driving, it is important that you speak with a knowledgeable traffic attorney before pleading guilty. Paying the fine is the same as admitting that you are guilty. Keep in mind that the prosecutor in any traffic case must prove you actually committed the traffic violation. A skilled attorney can potentially raise exceptions and defenses on your behalf. For example, drivers are allowed to make emergency calls in certain situations.

I am an experienced traffic lawyer who may be able to fight your ticket and negotiate a favorable outcome that helps you avoid points on your license, keep your driving record clean and maintain your driving privileges in New York. I know the courts, prosecutors and judges in courts throughout Dutchess County New York. Let me put my 36 years of experience to work for you.

I am an out of state attorney so I know a great one when I see it. They took my 4 point ticket and got it reduced to a 0 point parking violation. They were pleasant and helpful. The have a finely tuned machine and really have your back. Don't just pay the ticket, even if you are from out of state have these guys fight it. They are the best! M.C.

★★★★★

Got the points erased from my traffic ticket. Did prompt follow ups. Provided valuable suggestions that helped in decision making. Was upfront in what can-do and cannot do. T.M.

★★★★★

Having Jonathan Katz handle my traffic citation and court was worth every penny spent and was such an easy process. B.A.

★★★★★

I did not have to travel out of town to attend court. Very limited effort on my end was required. Very happy. P.N.